"Amy's spinal cord was completely severed at the T11 vertebrae, but, miraculously, a broken vertebrae stopped within millimetres of rupturing her aorta, and she did not suffer any head trauma.

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"Amy awoke within hours of surgery acting like her typical spunky, boisterous, ebullient self and has spent the last 24 hours entertaining her family and her medical staff in the ICU (Intensive Care Unit)."

Van Dyken's husband, former Denver Broncos punter Tom Rouen, was with her when the accident happened and comforted her while waiting for a helicopter to arrive.

Van Dyken, 41, is one of the most decorated Olympic swimmers of all time, winning six gold medals during her glittering career in the pool.

At the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, she won the 50 metres freestyle and 100m butterfly as well as winning two relay golds for the United States. She won another two gold medals in relays at the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

"The USA Swimming family is devastated to learn of Amy Van Dyken's unfortunate accident this weekend. We're happy to hear that she escaped and is now in great care," USA Swimming said in a statement.

"Amy is a champion who has proven throughout her life that she is a fighter who takes on challenges and comes out on top. We know Amy will tackle her rehabilitation with vigour and be back on her feet sooner rather than later."